Prineville Police officers are investigating a series of check thefts from numerous local businesses that have suffered losses -- often in the thousands of dollars.

According to a news release issued by Chief Eric Bush and operations commander Captain Michael Boyd, they believe thieves are either gaining access to the checks during normal business hours, or committing burglaries where little or nothing appears to be disturbed.

“The thefts often go unnoticed for several weeks,” said Chief Bush, adding that the checks are later fraudulently filled out and cashed at banks outside of the community.

“We urge all businesses to secure their checks in a locked location and to report any suspicious persons or circumstances to the Prineville Police Department,” Bush said.